Ethel Kennedy, the widow of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, who was known for her dedication to social causes and her family’s legacy, passed away at 96 in Boston, Massachusetts. She had been hospitalized after suffering a stroke in her sleep on October 3.
The Kennedy matriarch had raised 11 children after her husband’s assassination and endured numerous tragedies throughout her life. From the loss of her husband, Robert F. Kennedy, who was fatally shot in 1968, to the deaths of her parents, brother, and several of her children and relatives, Ethel Kennedy faced unimaginable grief.
Despite the immense loss she experienced, Ethel remained committed to her Catholic faith and her family. She founded the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights and advocated for causes such as gun control and human rights. She rarely spoke about her husband’s assassination, choosing to focus on the positive aspects of her life.
Throughout the years, Ethel Kennedy remained an influential figure in American society, with many of her children and grandchildren becoming well-known figures in politics, activism, and journalism. Despite the controversies surrounding some family members, Ethel maintained her grace and composure, never publicly commenting on their actions.
Her dedication to social causes extended beyond her family, as she was actively involved in organizations such as the Coalition of Gun Control, Special Olympics, and the Earth Conservation Corps. She participated in demonstrations and hunger strikes to advocate for various issues, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place.
Ethel Kennedy’s legacy lives on through the nonprofit center she founded, which continues to advance human rights through litigation, advocacy, education, and inspiration. Her contributions to society and her resilience in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to many.
Despite the challenges she faced in her life, Ethel Kennedy’s impact on American society and her unwavering commitment to social causes will be remembered for years to come. Her legacy as a dedicated advocate for justice and human rights will continue to inspire future generations to work towards a more equitable and compassionate world.
